Schools to reopen after fires

Schools to reopen after fires - The West Australian

Waggrakine and Wickham primary schools are set to open today despite fires in the administration blocks of both schools at the weekend.

A temporary office has been set up in the library at Waggrakine Primary School, in Geraldton's northern suburbs, after a suspicious fire caused $700,000 damage to the reception area, administration area, conference room and staff room at the school.

Firefighters were called to the blaze in the early hours of Saturday morning after they were alerted by education security.

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with aggravated burglary and criminal damage over the fire and is due to appear in Geraldton Children's Court on March 1.

Education Department deputy director general schools David Axworthy said fortunately no classrooms had been damaged so classes and the school canteen would run as usual today.

At Wickham Primary School, near Roebourne, a fire started about midday on Saturday while contractors were working at the school.

Mr Axworthy said the administration block was gutted by fire and there had been some smoke damage to the junior primary block but the block had been professionally cleaned and would be open today.

He said parents and carers should be aware that the post-fire conditions may affect children with asthma and respiratory conditions.

"Parents of children with respiratory conditions may choose to keep their children home as a precautionary measure," Mr Axworthy said.

"We urge parents to keep a close eye on their children and watch for symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath, irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, and seek medical advice where appropriate."

Bindoon Primary School was closed on Friday because of a threatening bushfire but the school will be open today.